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Harnessing Wind Energy Through Aerodynamic Design and Reinforced Concrete Construction

Authors:
Ismail Rifaat, Raghad Al Gaood
Harnessing Wind Energy Through Aerodynamic Design and Reinforced Concrete Construction
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Utilizing an aerodynamic form and integrated wind turbines, the high-rise structure generates its own energy while providing a mixed-use environment that includes retail, office, and community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes wind turbines integrated into the structure for energy generation.
02
Features an aerodynamic tapering form to minimize wind resistance.
03
Includes a green roof that promotes biodiversity and user well-being.
04
Incorporates local materials to reduce environmental impact.
05
Design optimizes natural ventilation and daylighting throughout the building.

### Overview
The SkyHive Skyscraper is conceived as a contemporary high-rise project with a focus on functionality and sustainability. Designed for urban environments, particularly those characterized by high wind conditions, the project aims to integrate innovative engineering solutions that harness wind energy to meet the building's operational needs while minimizing environmental impact.

### Wind Energy Optimization
The design incorporates a strategic orientation that capitalizes on prevailing winds, integrating turbines on the façade and at the summit to generate electricity. This approach not only addresses energy efficiency but also enhances the building's stability through aerodynamic profiling. The tapering form of the structure is specifically designed to reduce wind resistance, with inverted architectural elements that enable effective airflow manipulation.

### Material Selection
The construction employs reinforced concrete for its structural integrity and seismic resilience, complemented by concrete aggregates for durability and environmental compatibility. Emphasis is placed on sourcing exterior finishes from local materials, aligning with the project's sustainability goals and reducing the overall carbon footprint. This thoughtful approach to materiality underscores a commitment to both performance and ecological responsibility.

### Functional Spatial Distribution
Internally, the skyscraper is organized to support diverse functions across its vertical levels. The ground floor features retail access and a communal atrium, fostering a sense of community. Mezzanine levels are designated for social and retail activities, while dedicated office spaces provide efficient work environments. The design also includes a roof garden, promoting recreation and biodiversity while enhancing user well-being. The integration of tuned oscillation dampers serves to mitigate noise from wind, ensuring a conducive indoor environment and contributing to the overall structural dynamics.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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